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Stamp Collecting

United States Stamp Values
Wondering what your old U.S. stamps are worth? The Hobbizine United States Stamp Value Guide provides market prices for stamps in both mint and used condition. More than a simple price list or catalogue, the guide’s extensive illustrations and commentary make it an invaluable reference tool for stamp identification and United States postal history.

Finding Watermarks on Stamps
Stamp collectors use watermarks to help indentify stamps that appear similar but were actually part of different production runs. However, for both the new and the experienced philatelist making a positive watermark ID can be quite the challenge. This overview of techniques and equipment is just what the stamp doctor ordered to help you find those ellusive markings.

The Pan American Stamp Series of 1901
On May 1, 1901, the Post Office Department released the Pan American series of stamps. The first stamps of the 20th Century, the series featured then-modern transportation themes, ornately illustrated, and printed using a bi-color printing process. Immediately popular, the stamps remain darlings of United States collectors.

The United States Bank Note Stamps
Detailed information on the United States Bank Note issues of postage stamps. Covers paper types, grills and secret marks. In the years between 1870 and 1893 dozens of varieties of stamps were produced. These varieties – stamps that appear similar but are treated as distinct issues by philatelists – include the scarcest and most valuable stamps in US collecting.

The Problem of Color in Stamp Collecting
The color of a stamp is often key to making a proper identification, but choosing the correct color is easier said than done. This review surveys the issues around stamp color identification and some of the solutions collectors have come up with over the years.

Siam - The Classic Stamps of Thailand
Some of stamp collecting's greatest treasures come from Thailand. This survey of the Siam period of Thailand's stamp production will help you learn about the classic issues of this nation.

All About Stamp Perforations
Perforation measurement provides a way to distinguish otherwise similar appearing stamps, and all major stamp catalogs will provide this information. This article will help you learn the basics of the technique.

Discovery of Rotuma - Fiji Stamp Issue of 1966
Rotuma, a Fijian Dependency, is a group of volcanic islands, consisting of one main island and eight small rocky islets surrounding it. This three stamp series issued in 1966 celebrates the 175th Anniversary of the discovery of Rotuma.

The Death of Captain Cook - Norfolk Islands Stamp Issue of 1979
Captain James Cook was an English explorer, navigator and cartographer, credited with numerous accomplishments over the course of three voyages to the Pacific Ocean. This four stamp set was issued by the Norfolk Islands on the 200th Anniversary of Cook’s death.

Owls - Marshall Islands Stamp Issue of 2008
Owls are a favorite of wildlife enthusiasts and stamp collectors alike. This set of six stamps was issued by the Marshall Islands on November 5, 2008. It features the artwork of wildlife artist Michael Warren.

Polynesian Pitcairn - Pitcairn Islands Issue of 1971
The pre-history of the Polynesian people has been the subject of great study and debate. Since the time of Cook's voyages, explorers, archeologists and anthropologists have wondered about this rich culture which flourished scattered across many islands in some of the most remote, inaccessible places on earth. In 1971 the Pitcairn Islands released this four stamp set entitled Polynesian Pitcairn in celebration of the fascinating archeology of the island.

Birds of Prey - Cambodia Stamp Issue of 1999
This majestic set of six stamps featuring birds of prey from around the world was issued by Cambodia in 1999. Issued in denominations from 200 to 4000 riels the stamps series features such raptors as the Harpy Eagle, the Egyptian Vulture and the Peregrine Falcon.

Whaleship Visits - Marshall Islands Stamp Issue of 1987
Whaling was a significant American industry in the 19th Century. In addition to oil that was used both as a fuel for lamps and as a machine lubricant, the animals were harvested for the baleen which filter feeding whales have in place of teeth. On February 20, 1987 the Marshall Islands issued this set of four stamps which picture whaleships known to have visited the island.

Terra Cotta Soldiers - China Stamp Issue of 1983
The discovery of the terra cotta army which guarded the tomb of emperor Qin Shi Huangdi for more than 2,000 years is considered one of the greatest archeological finds in history. On June 30, 1983 the Beijing Postage Stamp Printing Works issued a stamp series to commemorate this national treasure. In addition to four different stamps showing various views of the terra cotta soldiers and horses, the issue included a souvenir sheet and booklet.